So, the inquisitive Black asked Johnson and Pelinka a series of detailed questions regarding himself. The most pointed one: “Where do you see me in five years as a player?” Because of how Johnson and Pelinka answered his questions, including that one, Black walked away the meeting expressing confidence he will remain on the Lakers for the 2017-18 season. “I don’t know what kind of story will be created if I sat here and said no,” Black said. “That’s a given and the honest truth. I believe I will be. But once again the NBA is passion, basketball, business. You can’t avoid that.”

The Los Angeles Lakers have signed center Tarik Black, it was announced today by General Manager Mitch Kupchak. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not released. “Tarik is a player whose strengths are well-suited for the style of play we envision for our team going forward,” said Kupchak. “He plays the game with a mix of athleticism, energy, and physicality that make him a valuable frontcourt contributor in today’s NBA.”

This is not acceptable...11-year old Jabari Talbot was arrested in school after he EXERCISED HIS RIGHT to not participate in the Pledge of Allegiance. Jabari we stand with you and your mom in stopping the over-policing & criminalization of Black students. #JabariTalbot#TeamRoc